100 days after Assad's fall, Syria still mired in serious challenges

Damascus [Syria], March 19: A hundred days after the fall of the Bashar al-Assad government, Syria is still grappling with political uncertainty, economic hardships and growing security concerns, making the path forward increasingly uncertain.
Syrian interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa has sought political reforms and regional diplomatic engagement, while foreign affairs chief Asaad al-Shaibani has been flying from one capital to another, seeking support for the interim authorities and advocating for the removal of crippling Western sanctions, which he identifies as major obstacles to Syria's reconstruction and economic recovery.
Such sanctions are still largely in place, continuing to weigh on the already dire economic conditions on the ground. In addition, episodes of sectarian violence have also been darkening the prospect.
Security concerns
Syria's former security and military institutions have been dissolved, creating a security vacuum that the interim authorities are striving to fill. In many areas, lawlessness is more commonplace than ever.
Atif Hussein, a 57-year-old retired government worker, said the decision to dismantle the army and police has led to severe consequences. "People now resolve disputes with weapons, not the law," he said.
On top of that, the uncontrolled spread of arms has exacerbated the crisis. Hatim Abdelhadi, a 43-year-old from Sweida province, said that armed groups now roam freely in certain areas.
Political experts agree that lawlessness remains a top concern. Ali Yousef, a Syrian analyst, described the situation as one of "uncertainty and fear." He highlighted the increasing reports of theft and violence, with no clear security structure to address them.
Economic hardships
Although commodity prices have technically fallen, many Syrians cannot afford even necessities due to a lack of liquidity and widespread unemployment.
Some observers say the interim authorities' decision to withhold cash liquidity from banks to prevent mass withdrawals has further aggravated the situation, forcing citizens to sell off their U.S. dollar savings below market value.
Mass layoffs have worsened the crisis, as the interim authorities opted to sack thousands of state employees, citing the lack of competence.
"The widespread firings have left families without income," said Assef Ibrahim, a former government employee.
Political analyst Basil Hanawi criticised the current economic approach, warning that it has "failed to relaunch the economy," resulting in factory closures and business stagnation.
Sectarian tension
The recent deadly violence in Latakia and Tartous provinces has heightened sectarian fears, especially in Alawite-majority areas, where reports of killings and retaliatory attacks abound.
The violence erupted on March 6, triggered by "coordinated attacks" by armed groups loyal to Assad on security forces in the coastal Latakia province, according to Syria's defense authorities.
The violence quickly escalated into broader sectarian clashes, predominantly targeting Alawite-majority towns and villages, UN Human Rights Spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan has said lately.
He added that initial investigations suggest that perpetrators included fighters aligned with Syria's interim authorities as well as pro-Assad factions.
The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights has documented at least 1,500 civilian deaths so far.
Syrian analyst Yousef warned that sectarian divisions could deepen if interim authorities fail to act swiftly. "What happened on the coast is a warning sign. The interim authorities must work to prevent further escalation or risk long-term instability," he said.
Nation at crossroads
While some Syrians still hope for stability, others fear the country is slipping into deeper turmoil. Sarah Hadifi, 25, remains cautiously optimistic. "We live on hope, but without real reforms, this situation could worsen," she said.
Yousef remains sceptical. "Syrians expected real transformation, but they are instead facing worsening conditions," he said. "Unless the interim authorities take immediate action, public discontent will continue to grow."
Al-Sharaa has pledged to address the crisis. However, the interim authorities are hard-pressed to deliver any tangible results amid escalating instability.
Source: Times of Oman